Invocation of Virgin of the Visitation

Taken from Vita Consecrata, Post-synodal apostolic exhortation VITA CONSECRATA on the Consecrated Life and Its Mission in the Church and in the World

– Pope John Paul II

112. Mary, image of the Church,
the Bride without spot or wrinkle,
which by imitating you "preserves with virginal purity an integral faith,
a firm hope and a sincere charity,"
sustain consecrated persons on their journey
towards the sole and eternal blessedness.

To you, Virgin of the Visitation,
do we entrust them,
that they may go forth to meet human needs,
to bring help,
but above all to bring Jesus.

Teach them to proclaim the mighty things which the Lord accomplishes in the world, that all peoples may extol the greatness of his name.
Support them in their work for the poor, the hungry, those without hope,
the little ones and all who seek your Son with a sincere heart.
To you, our Mother, who desire the spiritual and apostolic renewal
of your sons and daughters in a response of love and complete dedication to Christ, we address our confident prayer.
You who did the will of the Father,
ever ready in obedience,
courageous in poverty and receptive in fruitful virginity,
obtain from your divine Son
that all who have received the gift of following him in the consecrated life
may be enabled to bear witness to that gift by their transfigured lives,
as they joyfully make their way with all their brothers and sisters
towards our heavenly homeland
and the light which will never grow dim.
We ask you this, that in everyone and in everything glory,
adoration and love may be given to the Most High Lord of all things,
who is Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Given in Rome, at Saint Peter's, on March 25, the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, in the year 1996